*British Army, c1960, Larkspur A41 Tank Commanders communications Headset and Handheld push-to-talk (PTT) Microphone*
Larkspur, retrospectively named, denotes a tactical radio system utilized by the British Army. Its development commenced in the late 1940s, remaining in service until the late 1970s, Larkspur was eventually succeeded by Clansman. The genesis of Larkspur stemmed from a post-war initiative to transition tactical short-range radio communications in the forward battle area from HF using amplitude modulation to low-band VHF using frequency modulation. The Larkspur A41, served as a VHF communication tool for vehicle-to-vehicle interaction. Designed for portability, the A41 could be detached from the vehicle, functioning as a ‘man pack.’
The Larkspur headset, compatible with the Larkspur Radio, was also employed with the No4C Mine Detector. Featuring pliable green rubber earcups for a secure fit and noise reduction, the headset included wire cages around each ear cup, allowing swiveling and inward pressure for a snug fit. A wire brace encircling the back of the head held the cups in place, while a adjustable leather strap over the top provided support. The leather top strap’s length could be modified using friction fasteners, allowing for customization and secure positioning.
The Larkspur headset has NATO stores number 5965 99-100 1940 on the clip on the rubber headband – Wireless Equipment, Larkspur Transmitter-Receiver Type C11/R210
The large clip has NATO stores number 5965-99-901-2377. 9012377 = Larkspur Audio Equipment Clothing Clip. Twin Screw Fixing type.
The brown Larkspur Microphone and Audio Unit Assys has P4 in a circle in white on the front. The rubber mouthpiece with clothing clip has indistinct NATO Stores number 5965 (901 0)415. When the PTT at the top of the phone is pushed the numbers 114 can be seen on the right in white.
The power socket has 6 way embossed it. The numbers 5965-98, 901 4288, taped on the green cotton covered cable and round the EMI connector is “Thorn 05-0020-10-6P” a 6 pin plug.
*Condition*
This unique and rare set are in excellent condition. There is a small hole in the left hand ear but the rubber is not at all brittle. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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